Iraqi-style Stuffed Pasta (Taške)

Ingredients

In the Iraqi adaptation of Taške, the traditional Bosnian dish, we incorporate Iraqi flavors and spices to create a unique culinary experience. The filling is enhanced with aromatic Iraqi spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric, which add depth and complexity to the dish. Additionally, the tomato-based sauce is infused with Iraqi herbs and spices, such as dried mint and sumac, to give it a distinct Iraqi flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Taške, so you can check it out.

• For the pasta dough: For the pasta dough:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• For the sauce: For the sauce:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried mint 1 teaspoon dried mint
• 1 teaspoon sumac 1 teaspoon sumac
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs, for garnish Fresh herbs, for garnish
• Yogurt, for serving Yogurt, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat: 20g (Saturated Fat: 6g)
• Carbohydrates: 40g (Sugars: 5g)
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt for the pasta dough. Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the ground beef or lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, salt, and pepper for the filling. Set aside.
3. 3.
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic for the sauce and sauté until translucent.
4. 4.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried mint, sumac, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Meanwhile, divide the rested pasta dough into small portions. Roll each portion into a thin circle and cut into 3-inch squares.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each pasta square. Fold the square in half diagonally to form a triangle and press the edges firmly to seal.
7. 7.
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the stuffed pasta in batches for about 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
8. 8.
   Serve the cooked Taške with the prepared tomato sauce, garnish with fresh herbs, and accompany with a side of yogurt.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pasta dough — Ensure the dough is well-kneaded to achieve a smooth and elastic texture. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more water gradually. If it feels too sticky, add a sprinkle of flour.
• Sumac — Sumac adds a tangy and slightly citrusy flavor to the sauce. If you can't find sumac, you can substitute it with a squeeze of lemon juice for a similar effect.

Tips & Tricks

• To save time, you can prepare the filling and sauce in advance and refrigerate them until ready to use.
• If you prefer a spicier filling, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the meat mixture.
• For a richer sauce, you can stir in a tablespoon of pomegranate molasses or a splash of lemon juice.

Serving advice

Iraqi-style Stuffed Pasta is best served hot. Arrange the Taške on a platter, drizzle the tomato sauce over them, and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with a side of yogurt for a creamy and cooling element.

Presentation advice

For an appealing presentation, arrange the stuffed pasta neatly on a plate, ensuring the dumplings are evenly spaced. Drizzle the tomato sauce over the top, allowing it to pool around the dumplings. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color.